How Can I Maximise My Chances of Getting Pregnant?

This method uses the fact that your basal body temperature rises by 0.2-0.4°C after ovulation. To use this method accurately, you have to take your BBT first thing every morning to build up a complete picture of your cycle.

Because it charts temperature rise after ovulation it can only be used to predict ovulation in the next cycle. That means you have to have a very regular cycle to be able to work out exactly when you will ovulate in the next cycle to make the most of your most fertile days.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that your body temperature can rise for a number of other reasons (including illness, drinking alcohol, hot drinks, movement and restless sleep), which can confuse matters. Also, in around 20% of women, ovulation doesn’t trigger a rise in body temperature.

During your cycle, the type and amount of cervical mucus — a secretion made by glands in your cervix — changes. It can be sticky or stretchy, white or cloudy. By making a note of these changes, you can predict when you will ovulate so you can make love on your most fertile days.

The main advantage of this method is that it gives you a better understanding of your body, making you more aware of the changes your body goes through during a cycle. However, it can take time to learn how to ‘read’ the changes, and your cervical mucus can be influenced by other factors, including infections, sex and some medication.